So, in essence, some women were aroused physically in their genital area and the vaginal photoplethysmograph could measure this, but these women didn’t necessarily really “feel” it.

Others who were more “interoceptively aware” could feel the actual physical arousal more.

So, what is interoceptive awareness, and how can you get more of it, if you want it? According to the University of London, it’s the awareness of one’s body, and a sense of “being me”. It’s a sense of body ownership.

Not that women should go get the equivalent of a rub-and-tug for better sensations in bed, but setting aside some regular time periods for inner reflection, self care and, well, a simple massage can help to increase overall interoceptive awareness.